WHEREAS, the economic health of this State is a top priority for our citizens; and

WHEREAS, as chief executive of the State, I am charged with improving the way our state government does business; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to determine ways in which government systems and services can be made more productive, more efficient and less costly, while providing an emphasis on customer satisfaction and productivity; and

WHEREAS, other states and the federal government have successfully undertaken similar efforts and identified sound management practices while enhancing accountability and performance, thereby serving the best interests of their citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, I do hereby establish the Governor's Commission on Management, Accountability, and Performance (the "Commission").

The Commission shall analyze government systems and services in South Carolina in an effort to propose changes which will reduce costs, increase accountability, improve service, consolidate similar functions, return functions to the private sector, and help South Carolina be more competitive in a world economy.

The Commission shall be comprised of fourteen members appointed by the governor, one of whom shall serve as chair, and the Lieutenant Governor and Comptroller General as ex officio members.

The Commission shall be authorized in the furtherance of its mission to hold public hearings, conduct site visits of government agencies, and take such other actions as it deems necessary and advisable.

The Commission will release its final report by September 30, 2003.

The Governor's Office and the Office of the Executive Director, Budget and Control Board, shall provide staff support as necessary to assist the Commission in carrying out the directives of this Executive Order.

This Order shall take effect immediately.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 10th DAY OF JUNE, 2003